G7 Foreign Ministers Discuss Global Crises with Saudi Participation

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Paris meetings address the war with Iran, maritime security, Ukraine, and artificial intelligence, while Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister joins European-Qatari discussions on the Iranian crisis and its regional and international implications.

Paris | BETH

November 10, 2026

Foreign ministers of the Group of Seven (G7) major industrialized nations continued their meetings in Paris on Tuesday under the French presidency, with the participation of Saudi Arabia and several invited countries, to discuss international crises and ways to strengthen global security and stability.

The G7 comprises the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Canada, and Japan. The French presidency also invited Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Brazil, South Korea, and Ukraine to participate in expanded sessions.

Saudi Participation and Discussions on Iran

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan participated in a meeting with Qatar's Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and the foreign ministers of France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy to discuss the Iranian crisis and its security and economic implications.

The Qatari Prime Minister's participation followed his talks with US President Donald Trump in Washington, amid diplomatic efforts to reach a settlement to the war with Iran and restore freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan also held bilateral meetings with his counterparts from France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and South Korea, focusing on bilateral relations, regional developments, and the security of maritime routes.

During discussions with the Saudi Foreign Minister, France reaffirmed its condemnation of Houthi attacks against the Kingdom and expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia in defending its territory, while emphasizing the importance of a diplomatic solution to the Iranian crisis.

Ukraine and Energy Security

The ministers discussed the ongoing Russia–Ukraine war, Ukraine's defense and financial needs, and the protection of energy infrastructure, coinciding with the launch of US–Russian–Ukrainian talks in Abu Dhabi.

The meeting's agenda also included global energy supply security, the situation in Sudan, strengthening the effectiveness of humanitarian assistance, and maritime security.

Artificial Intelligence and International Security

The Saudi Foreign Minister participated in an expanded session addressing the impact of rapid advances in artificial intelligence on international security and ways to strengthen cooperation in managing associated risks, while supporting innovation and the safe and responsible use of advanced technologies.

BETH Analysis | Saudi Arabia as a Partner in Addressing Global Crises

Saudi Arabia's participation in the G7 meetings reflects the expansion of its role in international discussions on security, energy, and technology, despite not being a member of the group.

The European-Saudi-Qatari discussions are particularly significant because they coincide with US diplomatic efforts to end the war with Iran while restrictions on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remain in place.

The true value of the Paris meetings will depend on the participants' ability to translate diplomatic positions into practical measures that reduce escalation, restore maritime security, and support efforts toward a settlement.